Editor

I wish to respond to the invitation issued to me by Ifor Lloyd, through your letters column of 18 November, to explain why the safe zone ‘disaster’ in Aberaeron hasn’t been lifted.

No two towns in Ceredigion are the same, with very different dynamics. Where Aberystwyth and Cardigan were partly pedestrianised during the summer months, Aberaeron was not. We were able to maintain what turned out to be a very successful traffic flow through the town, extended our disabled parking areas, and all car parks were free. There was, and still is, plenty of parking available in the town. I cannot think of an easier place to access shops.

The Welsh Government from the outset told local authorities that where the hospitality trade could operate outside, they should be allowed to do so. The temporary extended pavements in Aberaeron were put in place to accommodate both businesses and pedestrians, all within the legal guidelines for social distancing. Far from being the disaster which Mr Lloyd claims them to be, they have been a lifeline for hospitality businesses and have been received very well by the local population, after a bumpy start.

I have the greatest respect for Mr Lloyd, who, having ran businesses in Aberaeron many decades ago, will appreciate the huge pressures that our businesses have experienced during this very cruel year, including the loss of hundreds of Ceredigion council staff who support the economy of this town, and are now home working. Put simply, if the measures which were put in place hadn’t happened, ‘the dear town’ Mr Lloyd refers to, would have had far fewer businesses trading by now, and an increase in local unemployment. That is the stark reality. As to the question about when the pavements will be lifted (extended pavements on the A487 is a matter for the North and Mid Wales Trunk Road Agency), my answer is very clear, when they are safe to do so, and when every business can operate successfully indoors. Having said that, there are just as many people who would like to see a more permanent scheme put in place.

All in all, Aberaeron has been, and continues to be, a safe place to visit.

Cllr Elizabeth Evans Aberaeron

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